Arthur backs Harris return

Australia are expected to name Ryan Harris in the starting XI for the third Test against India following the injury to James Pattinson.

Last Updated: 07/01/12 11:42am

Ryan Harris: Perth chance after recovering from hip injury

Australia are expected to recall paceman Ryan Harris in their starting XI for the Perth Test against India.

With James Pattinson ruled out for the final two games of the series by a foot injury, Harris has been included in a 12-man squad for the January 13-17 clash at the WACA.

Harris, 32, has recovered from the hip injury that saw him return home early from the Australia's tour of South Africa in November.

After carrying the drinks during Australia's victory by an innings and 68 runs in Sydney, Harris is likely to be preferred to Mitchell Starc as Pattinson's replacement in Perth.

"We have a proven Test bowler waiting in the wings, ready to go. We've put a lot of work into Ryan over the last two weeks, he was close to getting a game in Sydney, but we felt that he hadn't had enough work," said Australia coach Mickey Arthur.

"We've put that work into him and we're satisfied that if selected he's ready to go come Perth."

Arthur believes Harris will be perfectly suited to the Perth wicket.

"While the Sydney wicket and Adelaide most resembles the sub-continent (wickets), the WACA pitch is going to be totally different," he added.

"There will be a lot of pace, a lot of bounce in the WACA wicket, so it will be interesting to see how they (India) go there."

Australia hold a 2-0 lead and need just a draw in Perth to clinch the series.